Yearly Traditions: Maine

Author: Becky Sizelove

There are few family traditions that stick in my mind quite like trips to Maine. As soon as I cross the Piscataqua River Bridge, I feel anew. Similar to the way a certain smell or song can bring back a flood of memories, the Wells area of Maine is a treasure trove of joyous moments, ready to be picked from my recollections. My dad's family migrated to Maine from Canada and I spent summers visiting my Nonnie there - going to Parsons Beach and watching fireworks from the jetty on the Fourth of July. Each summer, we still return, almost in honor of those yearly visits. There's something special about family traditions. They tie us to our upbringing and remind us of childhood joys. Since this area is so special to me, I wanted to share its most wonderful nooks and crannies in case our readers want to journey over to this magical place. These are a few of my favorite things:

Wells Beach

Wells beach is the beach my dad spent his summers building the biggest bonfires and basking in the sun. Walks on this beach always include plenty of stories of "back when" and "in the days of my youth..." I can see why he loves it so much - it's a very crisp, clean beach lined with the most adorable New England cottages. I often dream of owning one of those homes so I can smell the fresh salt air every morning.

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Rachel Carson was a marine biologist and environmentalist (among many things). She is credited with launching the contemporary environmental movement and awakening concern for our environment within America. Each year, I take a walk in the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Wells, Maine. This refuge has stunning viewpoints every few yards and one section of the walk looks like Endor, just as a plus for all you Star Wars nerds out there (holla!).

Parsons Beach

Parsons Beach in Kennebunk, Maine is my favorite beach in all the universe. When I went last year, a seal caught a fish in front of me and displayed it in all his glory. It's not just a trip to the beach when you visit Parsons, it's a time to connect with nature in its most joyful form. My favorite time to visit this beach is sunset - for some reason every sunset there is dripped with the most stunning colors and everything seems to light up just right. Fun fact: there's a horse farm at the opening of the road to Parsons and as a wee lass I named one of the horses Buttercup and used to ask my parents to drive by so I could say hello. 

1690 House Bake Shop and Cafe

I've been passing by the 1690 House Bake Shop for a while now and always admired the row of tiny houses adorned atop their doorway, not to mention the color of the building is one of my favorite colors. I finally visited this lovely location this year and I was not disappointed. I ordered a s'mores macaroon and it was delightful. A must see spot.

Perkins Cove and the Marginal Way

If you're in the area and want to do some fun shopping alongside a gorgeous backdrop, visit Perkins Cove. Once you get your fill of shopping, walk along the Marginal Way and enjoy the most stunning oceanic views.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is the quintessential seaport town and is always a joy to visit. Stop by Dock Square for a lobster roll and shopping, you won't be dissapointed.

Brewed Awakenings in Wells, Maine

I found this gem a few years back when the adorable turquoise Ford truck parked in front caught my eye. They have the best breakfast sandwiches around and the shop is dripping with vintage charm. Right behind the shop is a barn filled with amazing antiques. And either 1950's tunes or jazz is always playing on the stereo, so there's that. The coffee is yummy, too.

Douglas N. Harding Books, Maps and Prints

Do you love books? If not, skip this section. This was the home of the first book I ever loved as a child. Incidentally, my dog Ragnar ate the first extremely vintage book I bought here - it was beautiful and well written and had gold lettering. There's something about books written 100 or more years ago that just vibes with me. Last year's trip here led me to discover Hugh Walpole, who is now my favorite author. This book store is chock full of rare finds and some real treasures. Anyone who loves books should take a little trip to this store.

I could keep naming amazing spots in Maine, but I'm afraid I've run out of photos. I was too busy enjoying myself this year and left my phone behind on many occasions. One place I have to mention, which didn't get documented, is Scoop Deck. Go there, choose from one of their 100 ice cream flavors, and thank me later. Until next time! xoxo